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U.S. Soccer president says Hope Solo could be left off 2015 World Cup team

Reuters

Hope Solo is one of the best goalkeepers in the world, but her off-field issues could see the American star miss out on the 2015 World Cup.

That's the message from U.S. Soccer president Sunil Gulati, who told reporters Monday that it's not inconceivable for Solo, 33, to be left off the squad that will compete for the biggest prize in women's soccer this summer.

Solo was hit with a 30-day suspension by U.S. Soccer last week after her husband, former NFLer Jerramy Stevens, was arrested for DUI while driving a team van. The veteran goalkeeper was a passenger at the time.

That incident came just a week after domestic violence charges against Solo were dismissed by a Seattle judge.

Speaking on a conference call, Gulati was asked if the two-time Olympic gold medalist - and undisputed starting 'keeper - could miss the tournament that is set to begin in June.

"Sure," he said. "We've asked her to do a number of things, and she's going to have to do those things and make progress in those areas. That's possible. We hope that's not the case. We hope she's making progress and joins the team. That's certainly the goal - hers and ours."

Neither Gulati or U.S. women's national team coach Jill Ellis expanded on what exactly has been asked of Solo, though they said the tasks she is expected to complete during her suspension are "certainly achievable."

The suspension means Solo will miss upcoming friendly matches against fellow World Cup sides France and England, which will be played on Feb. 8 and Feb. 13, respectively.

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